13 Cooperative Extension Complimenting the County Fair
Resources to support and compliment the county fair in your community
Extension Programs that Support Community Engagement & Education at the County Fair
Holding extension programs that complement indoor fair departments significantly contributes to strengthening the county fair exhibit entries and fostering community engagement. It is important for county extension offices to host community education programs that provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various fair exhibit categories. By providing educational opportunities and skill-building workshops, these extension programs empower individuals to enhance their abilities and knowledge in fields such as crafting, baking, art, and needlework. As community members acquire new skills and refine existing ones through these programs, they are better equipped to create high-quality exhibits for the fair. This, in turn, leads to more captivating and diverse entries that showcase the talents and dedication of the community members. The symbiotic relationship between extension programs and indoor fair departments cultivates a sense of achievement within the community, encouraging more individuals to participate and showcase their talents at the county fair. This not only elevates the overall quality of fair exhibits but also reinforces the fair’s role as a platform for celebrating community skills and accomplishments.
| Fair Department Area | Community Education Ideas | Extension Programs/Workshops |
| Horticulture & Field Crops Classes | – Sustainable gardening workshops – Soil health and nutrient management seminars – Integrated pest management training |
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| Flowers | – Floral design and arrangement classes – Flower gardening and landscaping workshops – Flower preservation techniques |
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| Pantry Stores | – Canning and food preservation workshops – Cooking and meal prep for preservation – Creating homemade jams and jellies |
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| Baked Goods | – Baking and pastry-making courses – Bread-making workshops – Cake decorating classes |
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| Needlework & Sewing | – Basic sewing and garment construction classes – Embroidery and cross-stitch workshops – Alteration and repair techniques |
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| Quilting | – Quilting techniques and design workshops – Quilt piecing and assembly classes – Quilt conservation and care |
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| Hobbies & Crafts | – Woodworking and DIY crafting sessions – Handmade holiday decorations workshops – Leatherworking and leathercraft classes |
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| Art | – Painting and drawing fundamentals courses – Mixed media art workshops – Sculpture and pottery classes |